Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi launched a sharp verbal attack on Samajwadi Party (SP) President and former CM Akhilesh Yadav over his recent remarks related to the Ayodhya Deepotsav celebration. Speaking at an event organised to mark the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) centenary year, CM Yogi accused Akhilesh of disrespecting Sanatan Dharma, Indian festivals, and traditional artisans.
‘Akhilesh Hates Sanatan Dharma and Its Festivals’ – Yogi
Responding to Akhilesh Yadav’s comments questioning the need to light traditional earthen lamps during Diwali, CM Yogi said the SP leader has shown his disdain for Sanatan Dharma, Lord Ram, Indian deities, and festivals like Diwali. He further remarked that such statements insult the potter (Prajapati) community and farmers who grow oilseed crops used in lighting the lamps. “Thrones can be inherited, but wisdom cannot,” Yogi quipped in a direct jibe at Akhilesh.
Ayodhya’s Deepotsav Sets World Record
Highlighting Ayodhya’s transformation, Yogi Adityanath stated that a city once deserted is now glowing with spiritual and cultural revival. This year, Ayodhya set a new Guinness World Record by lighting over 26 lakh diyas along the banks of the Saryu River. He condemned the SP chief’s suggestion to use candles instead of lamps, calling it an insult to traditional livelihoods.
RSS’s Role in Ram Temple Praised
Addressing a large gathering at the Yogiraj Baba Gambhirnath auditorium, the CM lauded the RSS for its decades-long dedication to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He said that what once seemed impossible has been made possible through the sacrifices of RSS volunteers, who faced police action and even bullets. “Today, a grand Ram Temple stands in Ayodhya as a testament to that struggle,” he said.
Traditional Artisans and Farmers Deserve Respect
Yogi Adityanath emphasised that over two crore people in India are associated with the pottery and earthenware industry. “These clay products are not just about culture, they represent self-reliance and economic empowerment,” he said, adding that SP leaders have historically ignored the pain and livelihoods of these communities.
SP and Congress Accused of Opposing Ram and Krishna
The CM did not hold back in criticising the opposition. He accused both the SP and Congress of consistently disrespecting India’s spiritual traditions. “Congress filed an affidavit in court denying the existence of Lord Ram and Krishna, calling them myths,” he said. “SP government fired bullets at Ram bhakts.” He contrasted this with current times, noting that over 6 crore pilgrims visited Ayodhya last year alone, and more than 66 crore attended the Kumbh in Prayagraj.
Political Islam, Halal Certification and National Security
CM Yogi brought up the issue of Political Islam, claiming it has long attacked India’s spiritual identity. He stated that historical figures like Shivaji and Maharana Pratap resisted both colonial and Islamic rule. He warned that forces like “Jalaluddin alias Chhangur” continue to promote political Islam today. He reiterated his government’s move to ban halal-certified products from state markets, alleging that proceeds from such certifications fund activities like religious conversions, love jihad, and terrorism.
‘Panch Parivartan’ — Foundation for a Developed India
Yogi highlighted the RSS’s centenary year vision of Panch Parivartan (Five Transformations):
- Social Harmony
- Family Awareness
- Environmental Conservation
- Self-reliance through Swadeshi
- Fulfilment of Civic Duties
“These principles are the foundation of a developed India,” he said. “For true development, society must lead the way, with the government following.”
RSS: A Rock Amid Waves of Opposition
Ramesh Ji, RSS’s senior pracharak for Gorakhpur region, praised the organisation’s resilience. “Sanatan Dharma, Bharat, and RSS are inseparable,” he said. “Despite facing criticism and opposition over 100 years, the RSS stands firm like a rock in turbulent waters.”
The event, attended by numerous public representatives, RSS office-bearers, and volunteers from 28 affiliated organisations, was seen as a strong statement of cultural and ideological assertion ahead of upcoming elections.
